Golf: Nicholson name checks Watton to step up

RISING Lothians star Rachael Watton has been pinpointed as one of the players capable of forcing their way into the Scottish women's team this year.

Lesley Nicholson, who has been re-appointed as captain by the Scottish Ladies Golfing Association, believes the Mortonhall player can be among those vying to fill the gaps left by the departure of Carly Booth and Kylie Walker to the professional ranks.

"Rachael has come on leaps and bounds," said Nicholson. "I have played with her a couple of times and she's a great striker of the ball.

"She also has a tidy short game which is a real benefit at the top level."

Nicholson, who has been appointed to lead the Scots in both the European Team Championship and the Home Internationals, is also hoping to see Jane Turner retain her place in the side.

"Jane really impressed us all on her debut in last year's Home Internationals," she added. "It can be a daunting experience when you are winning your first cap but she took it in her stride."

The Scots agonisingly missed out on a first success in the Home Internationals for 18 years as they lost to Wales on the final day at Irvine Bogside last September.

But Nicholson insisted: "It is only a matter of time until we get over that final hurdle again and the whole set up has come on leaps and bounds since Kevin Craggs came on board as the Scottish national coach."